Penthouse Secondary Latching - SMB Service Bulletin

[WVvan-SMB]

The accident was caused by a failed tire repair, and caused the Barber's Ford E350 Sportsmobile van to crash on Highway 98 near Page, Ariz.

 

[Bigfoot-THOR]

I couldn't find any details of the Mexico crash... does anyone have any further details?

 

[LenS]

The picture of the Barber's crash van shows that the penthouse top was ripped off. Some of the canvas and 'X' tubing still attached to the van roof but much of it is gone. I cannot see that that could have contributed to the death of two adults strapped in. I would guess the lawyers went after the non-OEM suspension and its driving stability in a blow out condition. The pic shows the van had Aluminus front and rear bumpers. So it must have been loaded. Good thing the kids were not in the van.

 

[daveb-SMB]

I didn't read anything about SMB or any on board equipment being at fault only an improper tire repair done by Mossy Ford.
Myself, if my tire is compromised, I'll get a new one on ASAP rather than run a fixed one even if it's repaired correctly.
But having the top ripped off like that is not good. I'm not sure if SMB was required to add the new strap system or if they are just taking extra precautions.

The picture is in my album.

 

[Bigfoot-THOR]

It looks like they are not the same crash. In the Arizona crash, we don't know who the other defendants are, could be SMB.

 

[stanw909]

I don't have as much knowledge as many here but I don't know how the new strapping would help if forces can rip out the ( kind of small ) bolt holes through the roof.

 

[bigdog-SMB]

Rather than the seatbelt fix - I am going to try stout turnbuckles.